Colonial has the densest concentration of specialty restaurants in the Grand Resort complex — guests who prioritize dinner variety over everything else are best served by being in this section
La Cantina Cigar Lounge (premium tequilas, Havana cigars) and the Noble Beach Prize-winning Strikers Sports Bar are in this section — two of the most distinctive evening venues in the complex
The Family Room category (732 sq ft) with separate sleeping areas is genuinely practical for families with young children in ways that single-room configurations aren't
Cons
Some Superior Room units in older Colonial buildings have dated finishes and occasional maintenance issues — the entry-level accommodation tier needs attention in specific blocks
The specialty restaurant dress code enforcement is strict — men cannot wear shorts or sandals, which can be inconvenient at a beach resort if you didn't pack accordingly
Mexican buffet options are often cited as better quality than the general international rotation, but the overall buffet gets the standard 'repetitive by day 4' review pattern
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Pros
The only all-inclusive in the world simultaneously holding Forbes Five Stars, AAA Five Diamonds, and a MICHELIN-starred restaurant — a genuine distinction, not a marketing claim
Cocina de Autor's 8-10 course tasting menu with wine pairing is fully included in the all-inclusive rate — at a standalone restaurant this would cost hundreds per person
Every suite starts at 1,081 sq ft with ocean views, private terrace jacuzzi, and 24-hour butler concierge — the entry suite here exceeds most competitors' top categories
Three-tier infinity pools naturally segregate family, activity, and adult-only zones without restricting access — practical design rather than strict policy
Cons
Beach is not swimmable — Los Cabos Pacific currents make ocean swimming dangerous; the infinity pools are where guests actually swim
Cocina de Autor is restricted to adults and guests 18+ — families with younger children can't access the MICHELIN-starred restaurant during their stay
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Barceló Maya Colonial has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.
Rates start around $1,600/night in low season and $1,800+ in peak winter — a significant commitment that requires being genuinely invested in the Five Diamond experience to justify
